What Is Fraxel Surgery?
Fraxel surgery is a cosmetic laser treatment used to treat a wide variety of skin conditions. The procedure works by stimulating the production of additional collagen (a connective tissue) and skin.
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Theory
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The theory behind the treatment is that by causing damage to the deeper layers of skin, the body will be encouraged to do additional repair work to it.
Procedure
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The procedure involves using a laser to create microscopic damage to underlying layers of skin. According to dermanetwork.org, the outer layer of skin is unaffected by the treatment.
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Post-procedure
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Fraxel.com reports that the principle side effects are redness (like a sunburn) and swelling. Patients are advised to avoid direct sunlight for several months and to use sunscreen.
FDA
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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of Fraxel for, among other things, the treatment of age spots, wrinkles and scarring from acne.
Cost
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In 2009, the average cost of Fraxel surgery is, dermanetwork.org notes, between $800 and $1000. However, due to its status as a cosmetic procedure, standard insurance policies will not cover Fraxel treatments.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Divyansh Saini
